Fed Control Ration Research Articles

Effect of Palm kernel cake and probiotics on growth performance of growing Barki lambs

The effect of two probiotic products with Palm Kernel Cake (PKC) as source of dietary protein and/or energy in ruminant diets on the growth performance and some blood parame-ters of Barki lamps were evaluated. Two com-mercial probiotic formulas (ZAD and ICEC-Trol) were administrated directly with theirap-plications: P1 (without probiotic), P2 (ZAD), P3 (ZAD + ICEC-Trol), the combination of four different rations: R1 (control), R2 (PKC as source of energy), R3 (PKC as source of en-ergy and protein) and R4 (PKC as source of protein). Barki lambs (n=96, 35kg average body weight) were randomly assigned to 12 experimental groups in a completely random-ized block design. (8 lambs for each group) and fed for 47 days. ZAD probiotic was ap-plied at 2 ml/head/day and ICEC-TROL was applied at 3 g/head/day. Animals weight gain and average daily gain were measured and Glucose, total protein, albumin, calcium and phosphorus were measured. Results showed that animals fed control ration (R1) with P2, R2 with P3 and R4 with P3 showed highest (P<0.05) total weight gain (10.75, 10.88 and 10.56, respectively) and average daily gain (0.229, 0.231 and 0.225, respectively). ZAD probiotic improved serum total protein, globu-lin, glucose when using with PKC in lambs’ rations. In conclusion, using PKC as a source of energy or protein, with two sources of pro-biotics in lambs’ rations showed to be more ef-fective in weight gain, while using one probi-otic (ZAD) is enough for fattening with tradi-tional rations.

IMPACT OF INORGANIC FERTILIZATION ON SORGHUM FORAGE QUALITY AND GROWTH PERFORMANCE OF BARKI LAMBS

The present study was conducted at Maryout Research Station, Desert Research Center. It was applied in two experiments (Agronomy and fodder evaluation experiment and animal growth experiment) to determine the response of sorghum quality and consequently the animal performance to the application of combined N and P fertilizer in newly reclaimed soil. The first experiment was for evaluating sorghum fodder (Sorghum bicolor L.) that sorted with nine treatment combinations (from T1 up to T9) comprising of three nitrogen (N) and phosphorus (P) fertilizers levels (N80.4, N100.5 and N120.6 kg/feddan vs. P20.2, P30.2 and P40.3 kg/feddan) in factorial randomized block design with three replications. The results of the agronomy experiment with considering the ISDMD, NEg and the cost of treatments, showed that two treatments (N120P30 and N100P40) could be nominated to the second experiment which was their evaluation as feeds for the growing Barki lambs as compared to control treatment (N80P20). So, two treatments and control were sorting again in the next summer season to evaluate their nutritive values by using 15 growing Barki lambs (5 lambs/ treatment) in a completely randomized block design. Lambs were on average 22.83 ± 0.29 kg as the initial body weight and aged 5 months. All animals fed concentrate feed mixture to cover 70% of their growth requirements (Kearl, 1982). However, the experimental fodders were offered ad lib. So the experimental animal groups were allowed for three rations for 85d as follows; R1: CFM + sorghum forage of T1 (N80P20) ad lib., (served as a control), R2: CFM + sorghum forage of T6 (N120P30) ad lib, and R3: CFM + sorghum forage of T8 (N100P40) ad lib. The results indicated that; Average daily gain differed significantly (P= 0.016) being values 158, 185 and 192g for lambs fed R1, R2 and R3, respectively. Animals in R2 and R3 consumed a higher (P=0.042) amount of sorghum compared with the control one. There is a significant effect (P 0.05) by the experimental rations. Both R2 and R3 were the better (P 0.05) amounts of calcium. However, higher P content in sorghum of R2 and R3 revealed significantly higher P intake (P<0.05) and also P retained (P<0.05). The revealed insensible water loss (IWL) of the three groups was significantly different being values 144, 172 and 176 g/kg0.82 for R1, R2 and R3, respectively. The rumen pH value of animal group fed control ration (R1) was significantly (P≤0.001) higher than other groups at all the sampling time. Animals who received R2 ration showed the highest NH3-N values at 3h (P<0.01) and 6h (P<0.05) post-feeding as compared to the other groups; however R3 group showed the highest (P<0.05) value at zero hour post-feeding as compared to the groups. At 6h post-feeding, animals fed R2 showed the highest (P<0.05) TVFA value (22.14meq/dl) as compared to the other groups (19.68 and 21.45 meq/dl for R1 and R3, respectively). It could be concluded that both of the sorghum treatments; N120P30 and N100P40 kg/fed; are in the same nutritive values and similar growth rate for Barki lambs but because of higher P drain away to the land below in case of N100P40 ration so it is recommended for N120P30 to be a better fertilizer rate for the fodder consumed by the Barki lambs and also for its potential to reduce the environmental pollution with the high level of P compared to the other treatment.

Productive and Reproductive Performances of Primi-parous Friesian Cows Treated with Yeast Culture

This study was conducted to evaluate the effect of dietary supplementation of dairy cows with yeast culture (YC) on productivity and reproduction of primi-parous cows. Animals in the 1st group were fed the control ration (G1), while those in G2 and G3 were fed control ration with 20 and 40 g/h/d yeast culture (n=5 in each) during experimental period of 90 days prepartum and 90 days postpartum. Results show that CF digestion pre- and post-partum, body weight (30 and 90-d postpartum), body condition score (one-d prepartum and 90-d postpartum), daily actual and 4% FCM milk yield, milk fat, total solids and solids not fat contents were higher (P<0.05) in G2 and G3 than in G1, being the highest in G3. Uterine involution was earlier (P<0.05) by 7.6 d and calf performance parameters was better in G3 than in G1. Postpartum 1st estrus interval, days open, P4 at estrus, service period and number of services/conception reduced (P<0.05) in G3 with best conception rate. Serum immunoglobulins (IgG, IgM and IgA) at 0 and 24 h post-calving, RBCs and WBCs counts, hemoglobin, hematocrit, and serum biochemicals in cows and their calves in G3 were the highest (P<0.05), whilst ALT and AST activities were the lowest in cows and calves in G3. The current study may conclude that dietary supplementation pre- and post-partum with yeast culture (40 g/h/day) can enhance productive and reproductive performances of primi-parous cows, and immune response, healthy status of cows and their offspring.

EFFECT OF DIETARY ALPHA-LINOLENIC ACID ON REPRODUTIVE PERFORMANCE AND THE SEMEN CHARACTERISTICS OF RABBIT MALES

This study was carried out in the Animal Production Experimental farm Faculty of Agriculture, South Valley University, during the period from January to April 2018. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the effect of different dietary level of a-linolenic on the semen characteristics of the male rabbits of New Zealand White. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the effect of different dietary level of a-linolenic on the semen characteristics of the male rabbits of New Zealand White. Used Thirty New Zealand White rabbit males were divided into three groups. First group; males were fed control ration ,second group males were fed tested one ration ; (supplemented with 4% extruded flaxseed) and third group males were fed tested ration two; (supplemented with 6% extruded flaxseed). The reproductive performances and semen characteristics of the male rabbits of New Zealand White were evaluated . The diet affected many seminal traits and the males of control group showed the lowest values of live cells and spermatozoa concentration. The linoleic (18:3, n-3) fatty acids in the diet (supplemented with 4 % or 6 % extruded flaxseed) was to increased significantly their levels within the spermatozoa and to have extensive beneficial effects on parameters of spermatozoa function and therefore male fertility in the New Zealand White rabbit males

Effect of Xylanase and Phytase Supplementation on Goat's Performance in Early Lactation.

Supplementing diets of dairy animals with phytase and xylanase can enhance phosphorus availability and fiber degradation in the rumen and positively affect animal's health and productivity. In vitro and in vivo trials have been conducted to define the optimal addition level of xylanase and phytase to lactating Baldi goat's rations and investigate effects of these enzymes on animal's nutrients digestibility, blood chemistry, milk production and milk composition. In vitro batch culture technique was used to evaluate the effect of phytase and xylanase supplementation at different levels (0, 1, 2 and 3 g kg-1 DM) on rumen fermentation characteristics. Eighteen early lactating Baldi goats were randomly assigned into three groups and fed 4% dry matter according to their body weight. The first group was fed control ration (35% yellow corn, 20% corn stalks, 20% berseem hay, 12.5% soybean meal and 12.5% wheat bran), the second group fed control ration+Penizyme at 2 g kg-1 DM (R1), while the third group fed control ration+Phtase-Plus® at 1 g kg-1 DM (R2). Xylanase and phytase supplementation increased the in vitro DM and OM degradability and ruminal NH3-N and total volatile fatty acids (TVFA) concentrations, with no effect on total gas production (TGP) volume. All nutrients digestibility (except CP), blood serum glucose concentration, milk production and milk components yields were increased for enzymes supplemented goats than control. Inclusion of xylanase and phytase in lactating goat's rations improved their productive performance with no deleterious effects on their health.

Effect of feeding Moringa oleifera forage on productive performance of growing goat kids.

SummaryA five-months experiment was carried out to investigate the effect of partial replacement of rice straw in the ration of goat kids by Moringa oleifera (MO) forage on feed intake, digestibility, rumen fermentation, some blood parameters and productive performance of growing goat kids. Twenty-one growing Baladi goat kids averaged six months age and 11.20 kg live body weight (LBW) were divided into three similar groups and randomly assigned to the following dietary treatments; control group (R1) which fed 60% CFM + 40% RS, while group (R2) fed 60% CFM + 20% RS + 20% MO and R3 fed 50% CFM + 25% RS + 25% MO. The daily feed allowance of goat kids was calculated according to NRC (2007) and adjusted biweekly. The experimental rations offered twice a day at 8 am and 2 pm in equal portions up to the end of the experimental period. Body weight, feed intake and feed conversion were determined over the whole trial. At the end of the feeding trial, three digestibility trials were conducted on twelve goat kids. Results indicated that the digestibility of most nutrients of the two tested rations were significantly higher than those of control one. The highest values were recorded with 20% MO-ration (R2). The feeding values as TDN and DCP followed a similar trend to those of nutrients digestibility among dietary treatments. Growth performance in respect of final weight, total weight gain, daily gain and feed conversion efficiency were significantly superior with kids fed R2 and R3 rations compared with control ration (R1). The best values occurred with R2. Also, kids fed 20 or 25% MO-rations had significantly higher return and economic efficiency than those fed control ration (R1). Rumen function parameters and blood metabolites profile have been also investigated throughout this study.Accordingly, we could recommend for feeding the growing goat kids, supplementing ration with Moringa oleifera forage especially those containing poor quality roughage like rice straw, since it improve daily gain, digestibility. feed efficiency, and economic efficiency. The recommended replacement rate with Moringa is for 20 or 25% of rice straw.

EFFECT OF ADDING GINGER POWDER OR GINGER OIL ON PRODUCTIVE PERFORMANCE OF EWES DURING LACTATION PERIOD

This experiment was carried out at Research Station of Maryout belonging to Desert Research Center to assess the effect of ginger forms (Zingiber officinale) on productive performance, rumen and blood parameters of Barki ewes. Forty Barki ewes at last pregnant stage, aged 3-4 year and average weighed 40.47 kg ± 0.99, were fed concentrate mixture and alfalfa hay (as traditional ration) and divided into four equal groups. 1st group (T1) fed traditional ration without any supplementation as control group, the 2nd (T2) and 3rd (T3) groups fed control ration with 3 or 6 gm. Ginger powder (GP)/head/day, respectively. The 4st (T4) fed control ration plus 2 ml/head/days of ginger oil (GO). Rations offered were adjusted according to ewe's weight and nutrient requirements. Results revealed that treatments had no significant effect on live body weight changes and total dry matter intake. Milk yield affect significantly (P<0.05) of adding ginger forms. T2 (Low GP) recorded the highest (P<0.05) value of milk production compared to experimental groups and control which recorded the lowest value. Experimental treatments significantly (P<0.05) affect milk fat and total soiled percentage. Ewes in T2 (3 gm. GP/h/d.) group recorded the highest values of milk component except fat. Feeding ewes on experimental treated rations led to decrease saturated fatty acids (C 12:0 and C16:0), While, the experimental groups (except T2) insignificantly increased milk unsaturated fatty acids and conjugated linoleic acids. Treatments of ginger forms insignificantly affect pH and total volatile fatty acids. While, T4 decreased (P<0.05) ammonia concentration and protozoa population compared to other groups. Results of blood biochemical were differ significantly (P<0.05) as affected by experimental treatments. T3 recorded the highest values of total proteins and globulin as compared to other groups. Total lipids and triglyceride values were higher for T4 than other groups. Data of lamb's performance showed that birth and weaning weights of kids didn’t appear any significant differences among groups. On the other hand, T3 and T2 lambs recorded the highest (P<0.05) daily gain. Finally, T3 was better economic evaluation than other groups, where recoded the best feed conversion and net revenue for farmers.

Performance and carcass of local rabbit (Lepus nigricollis) fed concentrate on different levels based on carrot leaf waste (Daucus carota L.)

Research about the performance of local rabbit fed different level of concentrate based on Daucus carota L.was conducted for 12 weeks at Dajan Peken Village, Tabanan District, Tabanan Regency. The research design used was Randomized Block Design with 5 replicates. The animals were allocated randomly into 4 treatments i.e. control ration carrot leaf (Daucus carota L.) (R0), control ration with 10 g concentrate/head/day (R1), control ration with 20 g concentrate/head/day (R2) and control ration with 30 g concentrate/head/day (R3). Daucus carota L. and drinking water offered ad libitum. Results of the research showed that performance of the animals fed control ration with 30 g concentrate/head/day (R3) was higher (P &lt; 0.05) than that R0 (control) and other treatments. Carcass weight, meat, and fat of the animals fed ration R0 was lower (P &lt; 0.05) compare to treatment R1, R2, and R3. There was no significant difference (P &gt;0.05) to variables of carcass weight, bone weight, and meat bone ratio among R0, R1, R2, and R3 percentages. It could be concluded that the animals fed Daucus carota L. as basic ration that was supplemented with concentrate 30 g/head/day produced higher performance and carcass compare to the animals supplemented 20 g/head/day and 10 g/head/day.

IMPACT OF INCORPORATING GARLIC OR CUMIN POWDER IN LAMBS RATION ON NUTRIENTS DIGESTIBILITY, BLOOD CONSTITUENTS AND GROWTH PERFORMANCE

This study was designed to investigate the effect of garlic powder (GAP) or cumin powder (CUP) supplementation in growing lambs ration on nutrients digestibility, rumen liquor parameters, blood constituents and growth performance,. Eighteen of growing Barki lambs (averaged 5-6 months of age and weighted 27.5 ± 0.90 kg) were divided into three equal groups (6 animals each) in a feeding trial lasted 100 days. Animals were fed on basal diet (control) or supplemented with 2% GAP (T1) or CUP (T2) of the concentrate feed mixture. The results showed that apparent digestibility of all nutrients and nutritive values as total digestible nutrients (TDN) and digestible crude protein (DCP) were significantly (P<0.05) higher for lambs fed rations of GAP or CUP compared with those fed the control ration. Ruminal ammonia nitrogen (NH3-N) was increased (P<0.05) for lambs fed rations GAP or CUP compared with those fed the control, however ruminal pH and TVFA’s were comparable among the experimental treatments. The values of N balances and dietary N utilization were increased (P<0.05) for lambs fed GAP supplemented ration compared with those fed control or CUP-supplemented diet. Meanwhile Average daily gain and feed conversion were higher (P<0.05) for lambs fed GAP or CUP than those fed control ration. Dry matter intake was comparable among the experimental treatments. There were no significant differences in plasma albumin and cholesterol concentrations among treatments, while plasma concentrations of total protein, globulin and total antioxidant capacity were higher (P<0.05) for lambs fed GAP or CUP than those fed control ration. Plasma triglycerides concentrations was higher (P<0.05) for lambs fed CUP than those fed GAP or control. Plasma malonaldhyed (MDA) was decreased (P<0.05) for lambs fed rations of GAP or CUP than those fed control ration. There was a decrease (P<0.05) in plasma concentrations of HDL with feeding CUP ration and levels of LDL with feeding GAP compared to feeding the control ration. This study showed that dietary supplementation of either garlic or cumin powder at 2 % significantly improved nutrients digestibility and growth performance in growing lambs, without any adverse effect on rumen fermentation.

EVALUATION OF DIRECT-FED MICROBIAL SUPPLEMENTATION TO IMPROVE UTILIZATION OF THE LOW QUALITY ROUGHAGES IN RUMINANTS

Direct-fed microbials (DFM) feed additives have been shown to improve average daily gain (ADG) and feed efficiency in ruminant animals in many studies. So, this study aimed to evaluate effect of using fungal and bacterial DFM and their mixture on productive performance of growing lambs. Thirty-two Barkey lambs (3 months old, 22.31± 1.57 kg) were randomly assigned into four groups, 8 lambs of each according to live body weight. The first group (control) was fed control rations without DFM supplementation, while treated groups (Fungal DFM, Bacterial DFM and Mixed DFM) were fed the control ration plus 2.5 g fungal, bacterial or mixed (1:1) DFM; respectively. Results showed that groups fed ration supplemented with DFM (fungal, bacterial and mixed) recorded higher DM, TDN and digestible CP intake. Supplementation of lambs ration with DFM (fungal, bacterial and mixed) showed not significant (P>0.05) effects on rumen liquor TVFA's and ammonia concentration at 0, 3 and 6 hrs post feeding. While DFM supplemented rations showed significant higher rumen liquor pH at 0, 3 and 6 hrs after feeding compared to the control group. Numerically increase was recorded in cellulose activity as unit per ml rumen liquor for groups fed ration supplemented with bacterial and mixed DFM. Direct fed microbial supplementation significantly (P 0.05) in plasma total protein concentration compared to lambs fed ration not supplemented. While albumin, globulin, urea, triglycerides, creatinine ALT and AST, alkaline phosphates activity were not significantly (P>0.05) affected by DFM supplementation. Total gain and ADG were significantly increased (P≤0.05) for groups received rations supplemented with DFM compared to control group. Also DFM supplementation significantly (P≤0.05) improved feed conversion as DM, TDN, CP and DCP compared to the control group. It could be concluded that supplementing lambs ration with fungal, bacterial or mixed DFM improved feed intake, digestibility, average daily gain and feed conversion without any adverse effects on animal health and performance.

Influence of feeding garlic plant either as powder or oil on reproductive performance of ewes

Garlic as feed additives has been shown to favorably effects in in vitro studies, but there are a few in vivo studies that have examined female animal responses in different physiological stages (pregnant and lactating). Therefore, the objective of this study was to evaluate the effects of garlic powder and garlic oil additives on feed intake, ruminal fermentation, blood metabolites and reproductive performance of ewes. Eighteen pregnant ewes aged 2-3 years and weighed 40.86kg body weight at late gestation were selected and randomly distributed into three similar groups (6 in each). The first group (G1) fed on concentrate feed mixture to cover 60% of their energy maintenance requirements + clover hay to cover the remain percentage (control ration). The second group (G2) fed control ration + garlic powder as 2% of dry matter intake. While the third group (G3) fed control ration + 2 ml/head/day of garlic oil. The trial lasted for 4 months (one month at late gestation followed by three months at lactation period). Data revealed the positive effect of garlic powder and their oil on rumen ammonia concentration and Protozoa number. While, ruminal pH levels, volatile fatty acids concentrations, dry matter intake, average milk yield and growth rate of lambs were not significantly affected by the experimental additives. Blood urea concentration was significantly decreased by adding garlic oil. Results cleared that triglycerides and cholesterol concentrations were significantly decreased in G2 and G3 compared to control treatment. In conclusion, garlic oil or garlic powder supplementation to ration of lactating ewes had beneficial effects on rumen fermentation and lipids metabolism.

EFFECT OF USING SOME FIBROLYTIC ENZYMES IN THE RATION ON LACTATING GOATS PERFORMANC

The present study was carried out at farm and laboratory of Animal Production Department- Faculty of Agriculture, Fayoum University, Egypt. Fibrolytic enzymes were evaluated throughexperiments conducted by using nine of lactating baladi goats after 20 days of parturition and divided into three groups, three animals per each group. The first group was fed 50% concentrate feed mixture , 10% Egyptian clover and 40% wheat straw (Control ration). The second group was fed control ration supplemented with Asperozym(locally produced cellulase enzyme) at level of 1000 unit of cellulase enzyme /kg DM intake (R1). The third group was fed control ration supplemented with Phytabex plus O (commercial cellulolytic enzyme source ) at level of 1000 unit of cellulolytic enzymes /kg DM intake. (R2 ). The results revealed that Asperozym was superior to Phytabex plus O for improving feed digestion and milk production by goats.. There were significant (P≤0.05) increases in fat corrected milk yield ( 4 % fat) and fat percentage of ( R1) and ( R2 ) compared to control ration. Feed conversion of DM, SV and TDN was decreased significantly (P≤0.05) with control ration compared to R1 and R2 rations. Results of some blood serum analysis showed that no side effect of using the tested cellulolytic enzymes on lactating goats. From economical point of view, the best ration was R1 he present study was carried out at farm and laboratory of Animal Production Department- Faculty of Agriculture, Fayoum University, Egypt. Fibrolytic enzymes were evaluated throughexperiments conducted by using nine of lactating baladi goats after 20 days of parturition and divided into three groups, three animals per each group. The first group was fed 50% concentrate feed mixture , 10% Egyptian clover and 40% wheat straw (Control ration). The second group was fed control ration supplemented with Asperozym(locally produced cellulase enzyme) at level of 1000 unit of cellulase enzyme /kg DM intake (R1). The third group was fed control ration supplemented with Phytabex plus O (commercial cellulolytic enzyme source ) at level of 1000 unit of cellulolytic enzymes /kg DM intake. (R2 ). The results revealed that Asperozym was superior to Phytabex plus O for improving feed digestion and milk production by goats.. There were significant (P≤0.05) increases in fat corrected milk yield ( 4 % fat) and fat percentage of ( R1) and ( R2 ) compared to control ration. Feed conversion of DM, SV and TDN was decreased significantly (P≤0.05) with control ration compared to R1 and R2 rations. Results of some blood serum analysis showed that no side effect of using the tested cellulolytic enzymes on lactating goats. From economical point of view, the best ration was R1

EVALUATION OF EXOGENOUS FIBROLYTIC ENZYME SUPPLEMENTATION TO IMPROVE FEED UTILIZATION IN RUMINANTS

Exogenous fibrolytic enzyme (EFE) have been shown to increase daily gain and feed efficiency in feedlot animals. So, this study aimed to evaluate effect of using EFE on productive performance of growing lambs. sixteen Barkey lambs (3 months old, 22.31± 1.57 kg) were randomly assigned into two groups, 8 lambs for each according to live body weight. The first group (control) was fed control rations without EFE supplementation, while treated group were fed the control ration plus 2.5 g exogenous fibrolytic enzyme. The groups fed ration supplemented with EFE recorded higher DM, TDN and digestible CP intake. Supplementation of lambs ration with EFE showed no significantly effect on rumen liquor TVFA's and ammonia concentration at 0, 3 and 6 hrs post feeding. While Supplementation of lambs ration with EFE significantly increased rumen liquor pH at 0, 3 and 6 hrs after feeding compared to the control group. Exogenous fibrolytic enzyme significantly improved nutrients digestibility as dry matter, organic matter, crude protein, crude fiber, nitrogen free extract, neutral detergent fiber (NDF) and acid detergent fiber (ADF) as well as feeding values as TDN and digestible crude protein. Exogenous fibrolytic enzyme supplementation to lambs ration showed numerically increased (P>0.05) in plasma total protein concentration compared to lambs fed ration not supplemented. While albumin, globulin, triglycerides and creatinine concentration and Alanine Transaminase(ALT), Aspartate Transaminase(AST), alkaline phosphates activity were not significantly (P>0.05) affected by Direct-Fed Microbial (DFM) supplementation. Total gain and average daily gain significantly increased (P≤0.05) for group received rations supplemented with EFE compared to control group. Also supplementation lambs rations with EFE significantly (P≤0.05) improved feed conversion as DM, TDN, CP and DCP compared to the control group. It could be concluded that supplementing lambs ration with EFE resulted in increase feed intake and digestibility, consequently increased average daily gain and feed conversion without any adverse effect on animal health and performance.

Effect of Probiotic or Prebiotic Supplementation on the Productive Performance of Barki Lambs.

This study was carried out to evaluate the impact of dietary supplementation of probiotic (Diamond XP™) T1 or prebiotic (BioBoostTM) T2 on nutrient digestibility, rumen fermentation characteristics, productive performance and economic efficiency of Barki lambs. Lambs in control group offered a concentrate feed mixture (CFM) and clover hay without supplementation while, lambs in treatment (T1) and treatment (T2) were fed CFM supplemented with probiotic or prebiotic at rate of 10 g/ head/ day, respectively. Nine barki male sheep (47kg ± 2.5) were used for running metabolism trail. The animals were allocated into three equal groups. Three ruminally cannulated ewes (45 kg ± 3.2) were used to study the rumen liquor parameter, while growth performance trails were carried out with twenty four growing male Barki lambs (27.5 kg ± 0.75) used to determine the growth performance, feed conversion and economic efficiency.The obtained results could be summarized as follow: Animals given ration supplemented with probiotic recorded the highest values of (p<0.05) digestibility and nitrogen utilization followed by animals given ration supplemented with prebiotic, however those fed control ration had the lowest values. The same trend was observed with TDN and DCP values.No significant (p<0.05) differences among rations in ruminal pH values, were recorded while total volatile fatty acids (VFA’s) concentration and microbial protein synthesis had significantly (p<0.05) increased with probiotic supplement. The control ration recorded the highest ruminal NH3-N concentration. A positive impact of probiotics (DFM) and prebiotic supplementation on nutrient intake, feed conversion ratio and economic efficiency have been recorded. It could be concluded that feeding lambs on rations supplemented with either probiotic (DFM) or prebiotic at 10 g/h/d has beneficial effects on rumen parameters, digestibility coefficients, growth performance and economic efficiency of growing Barki lambs.

FEEDING SUGAR BEET TOPS SILAGE FOR SHEEP: 1 - IN SUMMER

This study was conducted to investigate the growth performance of lambs fed sugar beet tops silage (SBTS) with concentrate feed mixture CFM. Forty growing male lambs (20 Frafra and 20 saidi weight 20.19 kg as average) were used in feeding trail. Animals were randomly divided into five similar groups according to their live body weight beside twenty mature rams (45 kg live body weight) were used in digestibility trails. Each groups were fed one of the following diet. (T1), CFM +Wheat Straw control, (T2) , CFM + SBTS supplemented with 0.25 urea /100 kg dry matter of silage un-chopped), (T3), CFM + SBTS supplemented with 0.25 urea /100 kg dry matter of silage chopped), (T4), CFM + SBTS supplemented with 0.5 urea /100 kg dry matter of silage un-chopped), (T5), CFM + SBTS supplemented with 0.5 urea /100 kg dry matter of silage chopped). CFM were offered as 3% of live body weight for all groups ,while roughages were fed ad lib. Control T1 had higher (P<0.05) digestibility in CP, CF, EE and TDN compared with treatments containing ureated SBTS chopped or un-chopped, but diets ureated with 0.25% urea chopped or unchopped was better in digestibility than those ureated with 0.5% urea. Rations containing 0.25% urea chopped or un-chopped(T2 andT3) were the best (P<0.05) digestibility in OM, NFE and digestible crude protein (DCP) than rations T4,T5 and control. The values of total nitrogen intake (TNI), fecal nitrogen (FN),urinary nitrogen(UN), total nitrogen excretion(TNE), nitrogen balance(NB) and nitrogen absorption (NAB) in control treatment lower (P<0.05) than other treatments. Total gain and daily gain were reicorded by the rations contain SBTS( U .0250% ) higher than rations contain SBTS (U.0.5%) and control ration . This diferences were insignificant. The significant(P<0.05) higher DM and TDN consumed by lambs fed control ration (T1),but feed intake as DCP has lower than other treatments . Lambs fed T2 and T3, showed the best conversion as DM and TDN, compared with those fed (T1),(T4) and(T5). Therefore, the lowest feed cost and the best weight gain equal the best revenue and better economic efficiency which showed by lambs fed diets containing ureated sugar beet tops T2 flowed by T3, T4, T5 and T1.

Reproductive Performance, Cholesterol and Progesterone Status of Garut Ewes Fed Ration Containing Different Levels of Sun Flower Oil

This research was conducted to evaluate reproductive performance, cholesterol, glucose and progesterone of Garut ewes fed rations containing different levels of sun flower oil. Using completely randomized design, four ration treatments were given to thirty two ewes (BW 22.12±1.69 kg) with eight animals for each treatment. Four iso-protein rations were used i.e., control (SFO0) without sun flower oil; SFO2, SFO4 and SFO6 were the same as SFO0 but containing 2, 4 and 6% of sun flower oil, respectively. Estrous synchronization was conducted by double injection of Prostaglandin (PGF2α) 11 days apart before mating. Reproductive performance (litter size, ratio of male to female, mortality), cholesterol and glucose plasma were measured two weeks before mating and at the first month of pregnancy. Progesterone serum concentration were measured on day 25th, 28th and 31st of pregnancy, using radioimmunoassay. Number of embryo was detected using Ultrasonograph detector at the day 18-20th after mating. Result showed that plasma cholesterol concentration of ewes fed control ration was lower than ewes fed rations containing sun flower oil, while glucose concentration two weeks before mating was lower than those at the first month of pregnancy. Progesterone concentration was the same in all treatments on day 25th, 28th and 31st of pregnancy. Pregnancy rate and number of embryo in SFO2 and SFO6 was 75% and lower than in SFO4 (100%). The highest litter size was in SFO4 (225%) similar to the number of embryo detected by USG, with the male to female ratio of 3:1. However, the percentage of embryo mortality was still high (>20%). It i s concluded that inclusion of 4% sun flower oil in the ration could improve reproductive performance (litter size and male sex ratio) and cholesterol concentration.

Using Nigella sativa meal as a substitute source for vegetable protein in rations of native growing calves

The present study was carried out on 15 growing local bull calves of about 150-200 kg, live body weight and 10-12 months old to investigate the effect of substituting soyabean meal as concentrate feed mixture protein by Nigella sativa meal (NSM) at 0 , 60 and 100%. Animals were divided into 3 groups of 5 calves each, according to their live body weight for performing feeding trials. All groups of animals were fed iso-nitrogen (15% CP) and iso-caloric (2.7 Mcal/kg. ME) diets. Experimental rations were offered at 2.5% of live body weight with 1% of wheat straw. At the end of the feeding trial, which lasted for 105 days, blood samples were collected from all calves to estimate the total protein, albumin, globulin, triglyceride and cholesterol. Digestibility trial was carried out on three animals of each group to investigate the nutritional value of rations. Economical study was also carried out on experimental animals. Results indicated that there was an improvement in feed intake by 13 and 14% for groups fed a ration containing NSM compared with the group fed the control one. No significant differences were between groups of calves in total body weight gain and blood parameters. The feed conversion ratio improved by 12% for the group of calves fed control ration as compared with other groups. The same cost of producing 1 kg live body weight gain was found. Substituting soybean meal protein at 60 and 100% by NSM protein significantly improved crude fiber, ether extract, EE, and the values of digestion coefficient. It was concluded that NSM could be substituted instead of soyabean meal for growing local calves with out adverse effects on their performance.

EFFECT OF TWO DIFFERENT SOURCES OF ZINC SUPPLEMENTATION ON PRODUCTIVE PERFORMANCE OF FRIESIAN DAIRY COWS

SUMMARY This study was conducted to investigate the effect of zinc sulfate and zinc methionine supplementation on the digestion coefficients, nutritive value, ruminal and some blood parameters, milk yield and milk composition of Friesian dairy cows. Animals were fed according to the NRC feed allowances for dairy cattle (1989). Fifteen Friesian dairy cows were divided into three groups (five animal each). Animal were fed on the following rations: Control group fed concentrate feed mixture (CFM), berseem (Trifolium alexandrinum) hay and rice straw without zinc supplementation. The 1 st tested group was fed control ration + 40mg zinc sulfate /kg dry matter intake (DMI) and the 2 nd tested group was fed control ration +40mg zinc methionine /kg DMI. All groups were fed for a period from the expected calving date to 182 days of their lactation season. Results indicated that the addition of zinc improved the nutrient digestibilities and feeding values as TDN and DCP. Also, zinc supplements tended to reduce ammonia-N and somatic cell counts but increased TVFA's, improved feed efficiency and milk yield. Moreover, zinc supplementation improved serum total protein and globulin, but reduced the concentration of both albumin and urea in blood serum.

YIELD, COMPOSITION AND SOME PROPERTIES OF MILK AND SOFT CHEESE AS AFFECTED BY UTILIZATION OF ZINC METHIONINE IN COWS FEEDING.

Twelve lactating Friesian cows with body weight of 450 to 550 kg and 2nd to 5th lactation season were used after 8weeks of calving in a complete switch-back design with three treatments and three successive experimented periods; each period consisted of 28days. The first 14 days of each period were considered as transition period followed by 14days as test period. Cows in the first group were fed control ration (G1) consisted of 35% concentrated feed mixture, 40% fresh berseem and 25% rice straw without or with supplementation with 5g zinc methionine/head /days (G2) or with 10g zinc methionine/ head /days (G3).The attained results revealed an increase in milk yield, total solids, fat total protein, casein nitrogen and whey protein nitrogen contents in milk (G2) and solid not-fat, lactose, non-casein nitrogen, non-protein nitrogen, total volatile fatty acid and ash contents in milk (G3). On the other hand, zinc increased in (G2) and (G3) compared with the control. Minerals contents of milk were not affected by zinc methionine supplementation. Clotting time was decreased while curd tension and curd syneresis increased in milk of (G3) treatment, whereas cheese yield, total solids, fat, recovery of fat and protein in (G3) and (G2) were also increased. The organoleptic properties were insignificantly from the different treatments.

Comparison of Milk and Blood Lipids in Jersey and Holstein Cows Fed Total Mixed Rations with or Without Whole Cottonseed

Lipids in milk and blood were examined in Holstein and Jersey cows (8 lactating and 4 dry) fed two TMR containing either 10% whole cottonseed or a control concentrate mixture of corn, cottonseed hulls, and cottonseed meal in a switchback experiment. Milk from Jersey cows contained more total lipid than did milk from Holstein cows (4.4 vs. 3.5 g/dl), had a higher proportion of lipid as triglyceride (97.3% vs. 96.7%), and had a lower proportion of lipid as phospholipid (0.8% vs. 1.0%). Milk from the group fed cottonseed contained fewer medium-chain fatty acids (24.4% vs. 29.4%) and more C18 fatty acids (35.9% vs. 25.8%) than did milk from the control group. Total blood lipids were 234 mg/dl for Holsteins and 168 mg/dl for Jerseys. Total blood lipids were higher for dry cows fed cottonseed (100 vs. 72 mg/dl), particularly Jersey cows. As determined by gravimetric or TLC analysis, milk fat percentages of cows fed cottonseed were not different from those of cows fed control rations. However, as determined by infrared instrumentation, milk fat appeared to be lower (4.3%) for cows fed cottonseed than that (4.6%) for control cows. Changes in milk fatty acids that were related to diets might explain the difference between infrared and gravimetric determinations of milk fat.